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newborn info

Newborn Photography Information: Heather Kelly Photography

Congratulations on your pregnancy or new baby! Choosing a newborn photographer can be a difficult task. You want to find someone that is experienced with safely posing your newborn and excels as a photographer. Heather has over four years of newborn photography experience and has mentored under one of the top newborn photographers in the U.S. She is a mom to three children, oldest child to two sisters, and oldest grandchild with seven younger cousins. She has experience working in a daycare, in the infant room, and countless babysitting hours. Heather takes pride in her work while maintaining a safe and soothing environment for your newborn. Below you will find newborn photography information on our studio. You can also view our YouTube page for maternity and newborn videos.

When to Book

Whether you just found out about your pregnancy, or your baby was just born, it’s not too early to book your newborn session! Newborn photography sessions are photographed between 6-16 days new. Newborns are still very sleepy those first couple of weeks and that helps us achieve those curled up sleepy poses you see on our website. It is recommended to book during your pregnancy, but if your baby has already arrived, we will do our best to fit you in. After your newborn session is booked you will be guaranteed a spot in Heather’s schedule. Once your newborn has arrived, it is recommended to contact us in the first day or two so the exact date of your session can be scheduled. If your baby is jaundiced, let us know and we will schedule the session closer to the two week mark.

If your baby was born early and spending some time in NICU, the session will be done once your little one is home from the hospital. Babies that are born early are sleepy for more than the first two weeks.

A few days before the scheduled session you’ll receive prep information and a questionnaire to fill out. The questionnaire will go over color preference and if there’s any poses you absolutely want, as well as any you don’t prefer. This is also where you can list any particular props or items you would like to use. You can see a variety of what Heather offers in the newborn gallery.

Length of Time

Newborn sessions generally take 3 hours at our studio in Newtown, CT. The studio is located 10 minutes off of I-84. We have newborns travel from all over Fairfield County, Hartford and even New York. Our newborn studio has a private entrance with a couch, TV, wifi, snacks and drinks. New parents often use this time to catch up on sleep, or watch a movie without interruptions. The session can go over or under 3 hours, although they generally don’t last more than 4 hours. Newborn sessions are never rushed. Heather takes her time to ensure the comfort of your little. She has a posing workflow that allows for a variety of poses.

Feeding baby

One reason newborn sessions take a few hours is that babies are hungry! Plenty of time is allowed for feeding breaks. It is recommended to feed your newborn before you put him/her in the car. That way they will arrive to the studio with a full tummy and the car ride usually gets them in a deep sleep. If you are breastfeeding, a boppy and brestfriend pillow is available for your use. If you have introduced a bottle, bringing one in would be great. It is absolutely not necessary if you are exclusively breastfeeding. If you are bottle feeding, it is recommended to bring a little extra just in case.

Posing Baby & Safety

Heather’s workflow allows for a variety of poses and use of props as well. If there are any poses you want (or don’t want) you can fill that out in the newborn questionnaire. As an experienced newborn photographer, Heather knows how to safely pose your little one.

All wraps, blankets, and clothing are washed with a free & clear, scent free detergent. The studio has a changing pad stocked with diapers and wipes. Hands are cleaned on a regular basis and always right before working with your newborn. Your baby will always be handled gently and safely.

The studio is kept at a warm temperature for newborn sessions so dress accordingly. The heat keeps your little one comfortable while they are naked. Since newborns don’t regulate their body temperature like we do, it is important they aren’t cold.

Props and Style

Heather has an assortment of blankets, wraps, headbands, hats, props and more. Heather has a very clean and colorful style. If you haven’t already, check out her newborn studio. Your input is welcomed on what colors and items you would like to use for the newborn session. Often colors from your baby’s nursery are chosen. Newborn sessions use 2-3 blankets and 1-2 rugs. It is recommended to choose 3 main coordinating colors that can mix and match. If you have a particular shade, be sure to let us know. Some of our favorite combinations are gray, purple, and aqua or navy, red, and gray. There are so many options to coordinate with your style and colors in your home. If you need any help or suggestions on colors, we would be happy to help you. This post on color suggestions could help as well!

Clothing for Family

All props and items for your newborn are provided. If you have a particular heirloom or item you would like to use let Heather know ahead of time.

For siblings and parents, it is best to keep clothing simple. Barefeet work best for children. Avoid large patterns, logos, or anything else that can be distracting. Light colors or dark work best. Don’t be afraid to add in some texture. Make sure your nails are neatly trimmed and there is no chipped polish. Your newborn will either be naked or wrapped for these images. Gowns are available for moms and there are tutus and skirts available for girls. Boys look great in jeans and a simple shirt.

Sibling and family images are provided in our newborn sessions. If siblings are involved, it is recommended to photograph them first, followed by parents. Usually dad or another caregiver will then bring the sibling(s) home or to do an activity. This leaves the studio a little quieter and a peaceful environment for your newborns session. Plus it gives mom some extra peace and quiet.

Booking a Newborn Session

If you are interested in booking a newborn session you can contact us for availability and pricing. Newborn sessions are scheduled on both weekdays and weekends depending on our studio’s availability. While it is recommended to book your session during your pregnancy, we will do our best to fit you in if your newborn is already here. Once you have decided to book your newborn session with us, we will send you a newborn agreement and invoice to complete. Once those are both completed your session will be booked and we will see you after your baby has arrived!

If you have any other questions that are not covered, please email. We are always happy to help. You can stay in touch and view sneak peeks on facebook or sign up for our newsletter.

Birth Announcements

You can order birth announcement through our Tiny Prints Storefront or company of your choice. We offer a variety of digital collections where you can download the digital images and print on your own.